Sitcoms have been a major form of entertainment since the very early days of U.S. television.
Jackie Gleason surprised many when he decided to stop his variety show in favor of a 30 minute version of
The Honeymooners (1955), which had its origin as one of his regular skits. Working with regulars
Art Carney and
Audrey Meadows, they created 39 episodes of pure joy. 'Lucille Ball' and
Desi Arnaz made history with
I Love Lucy (1951) not only by making people laugh but by writing in Lucy's real-life pregnancy. In
The Danny Thomas Show (1953),
Danny Thomas presented a believable family and as a producer, introduced
Andy Griffith to a broader TV audience in
The Andy Griffith Show (1960).
The Dick Van Dyke Show (1961) show, also with
Mary Tyler Moore, made use of the stars inestimable talents.
—garykmcd